Set Dosa
Snacks • Malaysia
How to Make Set Dosa (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Set Dosa is a beloved South Indian snack that has found a welcoming home in Malaysia’s multicultural culinary scene. This fluffy, pillowy pancake is often enjoyed with local chutneys or vegetarian sambal, making it a wholesome and satisfying choice for breakfast or light lunch. In Malaysia, Set Dosa is celebrated for its simplicity and versatility, often paired with coconut-based sides using fresh santan, or accented with pandan leaves for a subtle aroma. Its roots lie in the Indian diaspora who brought their treasured recipes to Malaysian shores, embracing local ingredients and flavors. The taste of Set Dosa is mildly tangy with a soft texture, making it a favorite among both adults and children. The batter, typically made from fermented rice and urad dal, develops a gentle sourness that complements the creamy coconut chutney or spicy lentil sambar. Malaysian cooks often add a hint of pandan or lemongrass to enhance the aroma, reflecting the nation’s diverse food traditions. Set Dosa is a wonderful choice for those seeking a light yet nourishing snack, suitable for vegetarian diets and adaptable to various health goals. Whether enjoyed at a bustling kopitiam or prepared at home, Set Dosa showcases Malaysia’s rich heritage and the seamless blend of Indian and local flavors. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a go-to for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches, loved for both its taste and nutritional benefits.
Ingredients(for 3 small dosas per serving)
- 1 cup Beras putih (white rice) (Soaked overnight)
- 1/4 cup Urad dal (black gram lentils) (Soaked overnight)
- 2 tablespoons Santan (coconut milk) (Fresh preferred) - optional
- 1 leaf Daun pandan (pandan leaf) (Finely chopped) - optional
- 1/2 teaspoon Garam (salt)
- as needed Air (water) (For batter consistency)
- 1 tablespoon Minyak kelapa (coconut oil) (For cooking)
- 1/4 teaspoon Baking soda (Optional, for extra fluffiness) - optional
- A few Daun kari (curry leaves) (Finely chopped, for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash and soak beras putih and urad dal separately overnight. Drain and rinse before use.
5 minutes
Long soaking ensures soft dosas and aids fermentation, improving digestibility.
- 2
Grind soaked rice and urad dal together in a blender with a little water to form a smooth batter.
5 minutes
Add pandan leaf during grinding for a fragrant Malaysian twist.
- 3
Transfer batter to a large bowl. Add salt, santan, and baking soda (if using), then mix well. Cover and let ferment for at least 6 hours or overnight.
6 hours
Fermentation increases nutrition and makes dosas fluffy.
- 4
Heat a non-stick pan and lightly grease with minyak kelapa. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan, spreading it gently into a small circle.
2 minutes
Keep dosas thick and small for authentic Set Dosa texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Set Dosa is a smart choice for health-conscious individuals due to its balanced macronutrients and minimal use of oil. Fermented batter improves nutrient absorption and gut health, while the dish is naturally gluten-free if made with pure rice and dal. The addition of local superfoods such as pandan and coconut enhances both the flavor and nutritional value. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients, making it suitable for weight management, diabetes-friendly diets, and vegetarian lifestyles.
Set Dosa is naturally low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy without heavy oils. The use of urad dal offers a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, supporting muscle health and digestion. Adding santan and pandan introduces healthy fats and antioxidants, while coconut oil is known for its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). This vegetarian snack is also rich in B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and potassium, making it a balanced and nourishing meal for any time of day.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use pandan leaf while grinding for a fragrant, Malaysian twist.
- 💡Tip 2: Ensure batter ferments well for airy, fluffy dosas.
- 💡Tip 3: Cook on medium heat and avoid flipping for authentic texture.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover dosas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a pan or steamer for best results. Batter can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; ferment further if needed before use.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 210.0 kcal |
